Quarterback Dare

23

Standing here, looking at Hayden, I can't believe how different he looks. His hair is shorter, brushed back in a way that sharpens his already handsome features. It's like seeing him for the first time all over again. My heart skips a beat as I take it in—the way the new cut brings out the strength in his jawline, how it makes his eyes seem even more intense. There's something about it that's so... mature, confident, almost commanding. It's a small change, but it feels like a big one, and I can't stop staring.

When I reach up to run my fingers through it, the texture is different, soft but controlled. It's strange and familiar at the same time like I'm touching a new part of him that I've never known before. But then he smiles down at me, and I'm reminded that no matter how he looks, he's still my Hayden—the man I've fallen so deeply in love with.

And then it hits me—I'm about to become Mrs. Anderson. The thought sends a thrill through me, a mix of excitement and joy that makes my heart feel like it's about to burst. Mrs. Anderson. It's more than just a name; it's a promise, a commitment to a life together. It's the final piece of the puzzle that completes us. I think about everything we've been through, how we've faced every challenge head-on and come out stronger for it. And now, we're about to start the rest of our lives together, as husband and wife.

I glance around the ceremony space, taking in the rows of our closest family and friends, the soft hum of anticipation in the air. Everything feels perfect like it's all been leading to this moment. My breath catches as I turn back to Hayden, his blue eyes locked on mine. This is where I'm meant to be. This is who I'm meant to be—with him, as his wife.

The ceremony feels like a blur, a whirlwind of emotions as we exchange vows and rings. His voice is steady, filled with so much love that it makes my heart ache. When he slides the ring onto my finger, it's like everything clicks into place. I'm Mrs. Anderson. I'm his.

The kiss is gentle but full of promise, a soft press of lips that holds the weight of everything we've been through and everything that's to come. When we pull back, the cheers and applause wash over us, but all I can focus on is him, the man I'm going to spend the rest of my life with.

Later, when we're alone in our room, the air between us is thick with anticipation. I can see the same longing in his eyes that I feel in my chest. Slowly, I reach for him, my fingers trembling as they slide over his chest, feeling the heat of his skin beneath my touch. He steps closer, his hands resting on my hips, pulling me flush against him.

"Lily," he whispers, his voice low and rough. It sends a shiver down my spine.

My breath hitches as he leans in, his lips brushing against my neck, and my shoulder, trailing a line of fire across my skin. I tilt my head back, giving him better access, and he takes full advantage, his kisses growing more urgent, more demanding.

His hands find the zipper of my dress, and I feel it slide down, the fabric pooling at my feet. I'm standing before him in just my lingerie, and the way he looks at me, with so much desire, makes me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

"Are you sure?" he asks, his voice thick with emotion.

"Yes," I whisper, my hands finding the hem of his shirt and pulling it over his head. I can't get enough of him, of this moment.

His lips find mine, and the kiss deepens, becoming a passionate exchange that leaves us both breathless. His hands explore my body, every touch igniting a fire in my veins. When we finally make it to bed, I know that this night will be everything I've ever dreamed of.

The moment the door closes behind us, the atmosphere shifts, the air thickening with a charged tension that sends a shiver down my spine. I'm still catching my breath from the excitement of the day, but now, in the quiet intimacy of our room, all I can think about is Hayden. The way his eyes have darkened with desire, the way his hands are already reaching for me like he can't stand the distance between us any longer.